What are the grease trap requirements in Sunnyvale, CA?

Food service establishments in Sunnyvale must install and maintain grease traps or interceptors per local FOG ordinances. The city follows the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC).

Do I need a grease trap permit in Sunnyvale?

Yes, a FOG permit is required in Sunnyvale. Fee: Unknown - set by city ordinance.

What size grease trap do I need for my restaurant in Sunnyvale?

Grease trap sizing depends on your establishment's flow rate, number of fixtures, and local code requirements. Per California Plumbing Code; approved by city director. Use our free sizing calculator for a recommendation.

Grease Trap Requirements
Sunnyvale, CA

FOG compliance regulations for food service establishments in Sunnyvale, California.

Per maintenance schedule set b

Pumping Freq.

Required

Permit

Yes

25% Rule

UPC

Code Base

Pumping Requirements

Frequency Per maintenance schedule set by director; variance requests allowed based on actual FOG accumulation data

25% Rule Applies

Permits & Enforcement

Permit Required Required

Permit Fee Unknown - set by city ordinance

Max Fine Unknown - enforcement per Title 12 sewer use regulations

Complete FOG Regulations

Minimum Trap Size	Per California Plumbing Code; approved by city director
Pumping Frequency	Per maintenance schedule set by director; variance requests allowed based on actual FOG accumulation data
25% Rule	Yes — trap must be pumped when grease and solids reach 25% of capacity
Permit Required	Yes
Permit Fee	Unknown - set by city ordinance
Maximum Fine	Unknown - enforcement per Title 12 sewer use regulations
Inspections	Periodic per city pretreatment program
Record Keeping	Required — maintain pumping logs and manifests on-site
Plumbing Code	Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC)
Ordinance Ref.	Sunnyvale Municipal Code Title 12 (Water and Sewers) - Sewer Use Regulations; Sewerage System chapter
Authority	City of Sunnyvale Environmental Services / Public Works

Additional Notes

GRD (Grease Removal Device) required for all FSEs and any user with FOG-generating activities. GRD type, design, and capacity must be approved by city. BMPs required to minimize FOG discharge to POTW. Additives and enzymes prohibited. Variance process available for maintenance frequency.

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your local wastewater authority or plumbing inspector before making compliance decisions. Last updated: March 2026.